When Donald Trump lost to Joe Biden in 2020, many thought his political career was over. During his first term, the US administration faced turmoil and sharp criticism, even from his own party, the Republicans. Yet he was again elected US President. Brian Lanza, a former adviser to Trump, said, 'When he falls, he stands up with redoubled enthusiasm. No one will be surprised by his return'. A report by the British media BBC has highlighted the details of his return to politics.
Short-lived exile
Four years ago, Trump almost seemed like a loser. Biden easily defeated him, and his supporters rioted in the US Capitol at Trump's call on Congressional vote count day. Hundreds of lawmakers and officials had to seek shelter during the violence. The Trump administration's Education Secretary Betsy DeVos and Transportation Secretary Ellen Chao resigned in protest over the incident. Even his close ally, Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, said, 'Get rid of me, enough is enough'.
Trump's claims against the election results also eroded support for him from the corporate world. Companies such as American Express, Microsoft, Nike and Walgreens have suspended financial support for Republican challengers. On the day of Biden's inauguration, Trump retreated to Mar-a-Lago, his private club in Miami instead of the White House. Author Meredith McGraw describes his state of mind in the book Trump in Exile, “He was angry, frustrated and without a plan for his future politics.”
Return to politics
But in a comment to supporters while leaving the White House, Trump hinted, 'We will come back in a new form'. California Congressman Kevin McCarthy then went to Mar-a-Lago to meet with Trump and pledged cooperation in next year's congressional elections. Even then, Republican Party leaders wanted to discipline Trump. But after McCarthy's visit, many were inclined to forgive him. This creates a great opportunity for Trump to reconnect with the party.
During a speech at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in February 2021, Trump said, 'Our journey is not over yet'. For Trump supporters, it is a renewed confidence in his leadership. Since that speech, he has resumed fundraising and his special kind of public gatherings.
The ups and downs of the midterm elections
By the end of 2021, Biden's popularity had declined in the midterm elections. The U.S. economy, inflation and rising gas prices provide an opportunity for Trump to return to politics. Many Republican leaders sought Trump's support for the nomination. Because his support equaled almost certain victory. But the results of the 2022 midterm elections brought mixed reactions for Trump. Republicans regained the lower house of Congress but failed to retain control of the Senate.
Primary and legal complications
Trump returned to the discussion of politics by announcing his candidacy for the presidential election in 2024. However, there were legal complications with several cases against him, including in New York and Georgia. He presented it to his supporters as political vendetta. During his primary campaign, he established himself as the party's primary challenger, trailing Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.
Trump's legal troubles have brought him back to popularity. Support for Trump has been strong, especially among Republican voters who see it as a political conspiracy against him. His legal team challenged the ruling and he changed campaign tactics to attend rallies across the US.
Support flow in last lagna
Trump's appearance at the Republican National Convention in the summer of 2024 sparked renewed excitement among his supporters. Many influential people, including Elon Musk, expressed their support for Trump at the conference. It inspired his election campaign. Despite the debate with Democratic candidate Kamala Harris, Trump held firm.
According to experts, this unexpected return of Trump sends a strong message in politics. He is not only reborn from destruction, but also stronger.
